Bon Bini!!!  (Welcome in Papiamentu)

I am so excited about what is awaiting our group only months from now. Bonaire is one of my favorite places on earth. Whenever I think of tranquility, gorgeous sunsets, ocean sounds, amazing diving, exotic wildlife, and a wonderful gastronomical experience, Bonaire comes to mind.

Bonaire is one of the ABC islands in the Caribbean and it’s an undiscovered jewel! It’s known worldwide for its diving which is what brought me to Bonaire the first time. My first dive in the waters of Bonaire was like no other dive I’ve ever experienced before. I felt like someone had placed me into an aquarium that was so clean and clear that I could see for miles and miles around me. Words and pictures can not justify the colors and imagery seen underwater. I could spend hours diving around looking at everything and still not see it all.

I’m excited to be able to take a group of students to Bonaire this time. Not only will we be diving, but we will be working with Coral Restoration Foundation and Sea Turtle Bonaire on some conservation projects. We will also be kayaking through the mangroves, hiking through the national forest and caving. Students will get to experience and learn first hand what real nature and biology is. I can’t wait to see their faces when they see a sea turtle swim by them on one of our many dives.

I’m counting down the days until we leave and look forward to some amazing experiences while abroad. I’m looking forward to reading what students blog about.

Good bye and pasa bon dia (have a nice day)!

Professor Jennifer Fernandes
Lead instructor for Bonaire 2015